AUSTIN, Texas — KVUE checked in with a local doctor about the best ways to breathe easy, even in poor air quality conditions.
As Saharan dust moves in towards Central Texas, people with some medical conditions are going to want to take precautions.
Dr. Matt Anderson, a pulmonologist at St. David's Round Rock Medical Center, said the best thing you can do is pay attention to the Air Quality Index.
He said those most at risk include anyone with underlying lung diseases like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Babies and older adults can also be vulnerable, as well as those with heart disease and people who are pregnant.
Anderson said people who have underlying conditions are most at risk during poor air quality days, but long exposure could impact anyone.
"You want to try to do your activity outside in the morning. And then, if you do need to be outside at other times of the day, you want to kind of keep it as a short-interval, low-intensity type of activity and try to stay inside for the most part," he said.
For anyone at risk or not, there are signs to lookout for if you've had too much exposure.
"Increased coughing, shortness of breath, congestion in the chest. You know, it's recommended that people with asthma keep their rescue inhaler with them during those times," Anderson said.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, Anderson said to seek help immediately at an emergency room. Otherwise, contact your primary care doctor.